What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a potentially severe sleeping disorder where your breathing stops and starts intermittently during sleep. If you notice that you are tired, even after a full night’s sleep, you may have sleep apnea. Snoring is a common sign among people who have sleep apnea, however, not all people who have sleep apnea snore.

Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age, however, men are more susceptible to developing it. The risk is also greater for individuals who are over the age of 40, are overweight, or have a family history of sleep apnea.

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Main Types Of Sleep Apnea

Main Types Of Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea.

This disorder occurs when the brain does not send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Complex sleep apnea syndrome.

This disorder is a combination of both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax while sleeping. This is the most common sleep disorder of the three types.

Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea

There are several symptoms of sleep apnea that oftentimes make it difficult to determine which type you have. Common signs of sleep apnea include:

  • Loud snoring
  • Waking up with a dry mouth
  • Insomnia
  • Gasping for air during sleep
  • Frequent headaches when waking up
  • Irritability

If left untreated, sleep apnea can cause more severe health issues. Sleep apnea can cause stroke, depression, and cardiovascular issues such as irregular heartbeat and heart attack.

Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea

How Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help You!

Sleep apnea can be treated in a number of ways. Here at Rockefeller Cosmetic Dentistry we offer three different sleep apnea treatment options:

Oral Appliance Therapy

This treatment option involves wearing an oral appliance in your mouth while you sleep. The appliance fits similarly to a mouthguard that is custom-fit to your mouth.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP is a machine that provides air through the airway passages and the air pressure being supplied maintains an open airway while sleeping.

Surgery

There are several types of surgeries available to treat sleep apnea. The types of surgeries include:

  • Mouth and oral cavity surgery, which involves removing the tonsils.
  • Nose surgery, which involves opening and widening the passageway.
  • The Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) procedure focuses on moving the lower jaw slightly forward, which tightens the soft tissue and muscles of the airway passage.

Schedule a complimentary consultation today!

A full night’s sleep is essential for your overall health. We offer effective sleep apnea treatments to resolve your sleeping complications. Oral appliance therapy is a convenient solution that helps treat sleep apnea, without the hassle and discomfort of other appliances such as the CPAP device. To discuss your symptoms and treatment options, consult with one of our specialists. Call (877)858-1624 to schedule your complimentary consultation.

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